Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the reward of saints is a profound theme in Christian theology, emphasizing the eternal glory and joy that await believers in contrast to their present sufferings. This theme is rooted in the teachings of the New Testament, where the temporary nature of earthly afflictions is juxtaposed with the eternal weight of glory promised to the faithful.Biblical Foundation The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Romans, articulates this contrast with clarity and conviction. In Romans 8:18, he writes, "I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us" . This verse underscores the transient nature of earthly trials when viewed in the light of the eternal glory that God has prepared for His saints. Similarly, in 2 Corinthians 4:17, Paul further elaborates, "For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison" . Here, Paul describes the afflictions as "light and momentary," emphasizing their insignificance when weighed against the eternal and incomparable glory that awaits believers. The Nature of Present Afflictions The afflictions faced by the saints are varied and manifold, encompassing physical, emotional, and spiritual trials. These sufferings are part of the Christian experience, as Jesus Himself warned His followers, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). The trials serve as a means of refining faith, developing perseverance, and drawing believers closer to God. The Promise of Future Glory The future glory promised to the saints is depicted as a state of eternal joy, peace, and communion with God. Revelation 21:4 provides a glimpse of this future, stating, "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away" . This promise assures believers that their current sufferings will be replaced by a reality where pain and sorrow are no more. Encouragement for the Faithful The assurance of future glory serves as a source of encouragement and hope for the saints. It motivates them to endure present hardships with patience and faith, knowing that their labor is not in vain. Hebrews 12:2 exhorts believers to "fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God" . This example of Christ's endurance provides a model for believers to follow, as they look forward to the joy that awaits them. Conclusion The reward of saints, as presented in Scripture, offers a powerful perspective on the nature of suffering and the hope of glory. The temporary afflictions of this life, though real and often intense, are not worthy to be compared with the eternal glory that God has prepared for those who love Him. This truth calls believers to live with an eternal perspective, enduring present trials with the assurance of future joy and fulfillment in the presence of their Savior. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 8:18For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Corinthians 5:17 Library Prayer and Trouble (Continued) Letter xiii. --(For 341. ) Coss. Marcellinus, Probinus; Pr??f. ... The Necessity of Diligently Seeking the Saints' Rest. Epistle Lxxvi. Cyprian to Nemesianus and Other Martyrs in the ... Homilies on the Epistles to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon. This HomilyWas Delivered in the Old Church of Antioch The Eternity of Heaven's Happiness. The Eternity of God Wesley -- God's Love to Fallen Man God's Love to Fallen Man Resources Does God reward us for being obedient to His Word? | GotQuestions.orgHow can we store up treasures in heaven? | GotQuestions.org Are there different levels of Heaven? Are there three heavens? | GotQuestions.org Reward: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Reward: A Motive to Faithfulness The Reward of Saints is from God The Reward of Saints is Inestimable The Reward of Saints is of God's Good Pleasure The Reward of Saints is of Grace, Through Faith Alone The Reward of Saints is Satisfying The Reward of Saints: A City Which had Foundation The Reward of Saints: A Crown of Glory The Reward of Saints: A Crown of Life The Reward of Saints: A Crown of Righteousness The Reward of Saints: A House Eternal in the Heavens The Reward of Saints: A Kingdom The Reward of Saints: A Kingdom Immovable The Reward of Saints: An Enduring Substance The Reward of Saints: An Eternal Weight of Glory The Reward of Saints: An Incorruptible Crown The Reward of Saints: As Servants of Christ The Reward of Saints: Be Careful not to Lose The Reward of Saints: Beholding the Face of God The Reward of Saints: Beholding the Glory of Christ The Reward of Saints: Being Glorified With Christ The Reward of Saints: Being With Christ The Reward of Saints: Entering Into the Joy of the Lord The Reward of Saints: Everlasting Life The Reward of Saints: Everlasting Light The Reward of Saints: Fulness of Joy The Reward of Saints: Hope of, a Cause of Rejoicing The Reward of Saints: Inheritance Eternal The Reward of Saints: Inheritance Incorruptible The Reward of Saints: Inheritance of all Things The Reward of Saints: Inheritance With Saints in Light The Reward of Saints: Joint Heirship With Christ The Reward of Saints: Not on Account of Their Merits The Reward of Saints: Prepared by Christ The Reward of Saints: Prepared by God The Reward of Saints: Present Afflictions not to be Compared With The Reward of Saints: Reigning for Ever and Ever The Reward of Saints: Reigning With Christ The Reward of Saints: Saints May Feel Confident of The Reward of Saints: Shall be Given at the Second Coming of Christ The Reward of Saints: Shining As the Stars The Reward of Saints: Sitting in Judgment With Christ The Reward of Saints: The Prize of the High Calling of God in Christ The Reward of Saints: The Prospect of, should Lead to Diligence The Reward of Saints: The Prospect of, should Lead to Enduring Suffering for Christ The Reward of Saints: The Prospect of, should Lead to Faithfulness to Death The Reward of Saints: The Prospect of, should Lead to Pressing Forward The Reward of Saints: Treasure in Heaven Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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